AUSTIN, Texas — Mark Teixeira, the former All-Star first baseman who won the 2009 World Series with the New York Yankees, has officially launched a campaign for Congress. The 45-year-old announced Thursday that he will run for Texas’ 21st Congressional District, a seat being vacated by Rep. Chip Roy as he pursues the state attorney general’s office.
Teixeira rolled out his campaign on his website and social media, presenting himself as a staunch conservative and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump’s “America First” message.
“As a lifelong conservative who loves this country, I’m ready to fight for the principles that make Texas strong and America exceptional,” Teixeira said in his announcement. “It takes teamwork to win, and I’m ready to help defend President Trump’s America First agenda, Texas families, and individual liberty.”
From the diamond to the campaign trail
Teixeira carved out an accomplished 14-year Major League Baseball career, including five seasons with the Texas Rangers and a starring role in the Yankees’ 2009 championship run. The switch-hitting slugger built a reputation for power, defense, and clubhouse leadership, collecting three All-Star nods and multiple Gold Glove awards.
He retired in 2016 and worked as an ESPN baseball analyst until 2020. A year later, he and his family settled in Texas, where he became active in conservative circles. He has worked closely with the Texas Public Policy Foundation, with a particular focus on school choice and education policy.
A district firmly in GOP hands
The 21st District, which stretches between San Antonio and Austin, has long leaned Republican. After the most recent redistricting, the district remains a stronghold for GOP candidates.
Roy, the outgoing congressman, consistently carried the district with wide margins. Teixeira has closely aligned himself with Roy’s brand of conservative politics. In 2021, he contributed the maximum amount allowed to Roy’s campaign.
Campaign priorities and conservative platform
In his campaign messaging, Teixeira has underscored issues such as border enforcement, shrinking the role of government, and protecting taxpayers. He pledged to put Texas families first while backing Trump’s political agenda.
His candidacy has already drawn encouragement from state GOP leaders, including Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Rep. Chip Roy, reflecting his integration into the Republican establishment.
Crowded field but Teixeira likely ahead
Teixeira is one of the first Republican hopefuls to declare for the open seat, but more contenders are expected to join the race. Among those preparing a challenge to the Yankees great is Travis County district attorney nominee Daniel Betts.
The election for the district is scheduled for 2026, setting up a competitive primary battle in the coming months.
What do you think? Will he win?
